Are All Split Ring Pliers Created Equal ?

[surfer]

I have switched out a few trebles and found it frustrating.  So I quit and left some not sharp enough trebles in use.  I want to buy some split ring pliers to remedy this situation.  Can the guys / girls who have used split ring pliers recommend which ones work and which ones don't work?  I have seen some basic cheapies for $5 and some name brands for $25.  Do they all work the same?

[roadwarrior]

I don't know, mine work okaandut I think they were cheap. What I have found to be an easier solution is cutting the old split rings and using new ones. The hook is easy to rig and attaching the ring is simple. Split rings are inexpensive and you eliminate about 90% of the hassle.

[links_man2]

I have found them to not all be equal, after about 3-4 different brands/styles.  I have finally settled on the Texas Tackle Split Ring Pliers being far and away better than any other pair I have had.  I had seen them recommended by others on different forums and finally ordered some.  They are a more expensive than some, but mine have been solid for the 16-18 months I have had them.

You can find them at many tackle shops and online, just Google "Texas Tackle Split Ring Pliers".  They run about $15.

[.ghoti.]

no , they're not. I've had to throw away a couple of el cheapo's, because they rusted to the point they wouldn't open. Got some Rapala pliers, as part of a kit, and have used them for two or three years; no rust.

[islandbass]

They are NOT equal.  Some split ring pliers cannot handle the smaller sized split rings that are used on lures.

When you get a pair of split ring pliers, make sure it states that it can handle the smaller split rings.

I have two. One for the smaller rings and the other my rapala pliers. The rapala pliers does NOT handle smaller rings from size 2 and less, but for 3 and up they are fine. The one I use for 2 and less are my lead cutting pliers that many river anglers use to cut and hole their pencil lead.

[surfer]

Thanks all. I will add the Texas Tackle Split Ring Pliers to my xmas list.

I love this forum. Just under three hours and I now have the knowledge as if i had spent time and money and tried a few diferent pliers. I will also put on new rings.  Thanks again.

[Low_Budget_Hooker]

I second the vote for the Rapala pliers.  The split ring tip is a savior, not just for split rings but for tracing the hook down eep in the throat and retrieving it.  

[Siebert Outdoors]

I'm with RW cut the old ones off and replace them.

No they are not all the same.  Ive had some cheap junk ones but the last pair I bought were from cabelas 19.00 they are awsome

[Marty]

I've had cheap $3 pliers (I think "Worth" brand) that worked fine on large rings, but not very well on small. I have the Texas Tackle ones which work very well on smaller rings, but not that great on large. They do have a larger size but I haven't seem them. But the size I have does meet most of my needs.

[Redlinerobert]

These do work great, I have a pair and no longer rip my finger nails in half trying to get the split ring open.